Shitaya Shrine Introduction to Its Cute Panda Goshuin, Benefits, and History!

What is Shitaya Shrine?

Shitaya Shrine, located just a 6-minute walk from Ueno Station, is one of Tokyo’s oldest Inari shrines, having been established during the Nara period.

Blessings and Deities

Shitaya Shrine enshrines Ōtoshinokami (also known as Otohime), the child of Susanoo no Mikoto. Known as a guardian deity of grains, this shrine venerates Ōtoshinokami alongside Ukanomitama no Mikoto as a deity of Inari.

History

・Shitaya Shrine is believed to have been established in 730 AD (Tenpyo 2) on Ueno Mountain, dedicating its worship to the deities Ōtoshi-no-Kami (大年神) and Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto (日本武尊).
・ In 1627, a decision was made to build a new temple on Ueno Mountain, where the shrine was originally located, leading to its relocation to the current area known as Shitaya.
・The shrine’s main hall was destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake, but it was rebuilt in 1934 and has been maintained and repaired through several renovations to the present day.

Access to Shitaya Shrine

Shitaya Shrine’s Goshuin

Here is the November goshuin (temple seal) from Shitaya Shrine! The adorable panda stamp in the lower right corner changes every month, making each seal unique and charming!

The office where you can receive the goshuin is located immediately to the right after your visit. There are also signs to guide you, so you won’t get lost!

Visiting Report on Shitaya Shrine！！

Passing through the torii gate, let’s begin our visit!!

Hand-washing Station

At the hand-washing station, there was a panda!

The main hall (honden)

The current main hall (honden) was rebuilt in 1934. It has undergone several repairs and renovations over the years to reach its present state.

Birthplace of the Traditional Japanese Vaudeville

In the Edo period, the first-generation Yamaki-tei Karan is said to have held a five-day vaudeville performance at the grounds of Shitaya Shrine. This is considered to be the first vaudeville performance in Edo. This monument was erected in 1998 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of vaudeville, with the cooperation of rakugo enthusiasts.

Ryuei Inari Shrine (In-Temple Shrine)

Ryuei Inari Shrine is a sub-shrine within the grounds of Shitaya Shrine. Located to the left when facing the main hall of Shitaya Shrine, it is characterized by a series of red torii gates. This shrine is dedicated to Uga no Mitama no Mikoto, the deity of grain and harvest.

There were many foxes present.

Summary

Thank you for reading.
Please do visit the charming Shitaya Shrine!